England sets record in historic run chase against New Zealand in Christchurch Test

England delivered a record-breaking performance in their first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, chasing down a target of 104 runs in just 12.4 overs on Sunday. This became the fastest-ever 100-plus run chase in Test cricket history, surpassing New Zealand’s 18.4-over chase of 109 against Bangladesh at the same venue in 2017.

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Despite losing Zak Crawley early for one run, England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach propelled them to an eight-wicket victory. Ben Duckett smashed 27 off 18 balls, debutant Jacob Bethell scored an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, and Joe Root contributed 23* off 15 balls, with all three striking at blistering paces. The team’s run rate of 8.21 during the chase set another record, eclipsing the West Indies’ 6.82 in their 1983 chase of 172 against India.

England’s win continues their dominance in opening Tests, marking their fifth consecutive victory in series openers, with the last loss coming in the 2023 Ashes at Edgbaston.

England won the toss and elected to field, restricting New Zealand to 348 in their first innings. Kane Williamson (93) and Glenn Phillips (58) were instrumental for the hosts, while Brydon Carse (4/64) and Shoaib Bashir (4/69) led England’s bowling attack.

In response, England posted a commanding 499, with Harry Brook stealing the show with a stunning 171. Ollie Pope (77) and skipper Ben Stokes (80) provided vital contributions, securing a 151-run first-innings lead.

New Zealand, despite fifties from Williamson (61) and Daryl Mitchell (84), could only muster 254 in their second innings. Carse delivered a career-best 6/42, completing a ten-wicket haul for the match, while Chris Woakes added three wickets to limit the Kiwis.

Needing just 104 to win, England chased the target with ease, thanks to Bethell’s debut heroics and Root’s supporting role.

Brydon Carse was named Player of the Match for his outstanding ten-wicket haul and a crucial 33* off 24 balls in the first innings, underscoring his all-round impact.